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Melasma: Causes and Treatments

January 1, 2022
By Dr. Christopher Choi
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Introduction

Hi, this is Dr. Christopher Choi from Concierge Wellness & Aesthetics in Las Vegas, NV.  One of the common skin challenges we see in the clinic is melasma. In this blog post, I’ll discuss what causes melasma and the best treatments for it.

What is Melasma?

Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown or gray-brown patches to appear on the face, typically on the cheeks, nose, lips, and forehead. Melasma is more common in women and is often triggered by hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy (‘mask of pregnancy’) or when taking certain medications. Sun exposure can also make melasma worse. Melasma is not harmful to overall health, but it can be a cosmetic concern for some people. Treatment options for melasma may include topical medications, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser treatment. It is important to protect the skin from the sun and use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to help prevent melasma from worsening.

Causes of Melasma

The most common cause of melasma is sun exposure. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun triggers an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. In some cases, melasma can also be triggered by hormone changes, such as those associated with pregnancy. Certain medications, such as birth control pills, can also cause melasma.

In some cases, genetics can play a role in the development of melasma. People of certain ethnicities, such as Hispanic, Asian, and Middle Eastern, are more likely to develop melasma than those of other ethnicities.

Treatments for Melasma

There is no cure for melasma.  However, there are several treatment options to improve and control the condition.  The best option for a particular person will depend on the severity of the condition and the individual’s specific needs and goals. Some common treatments for melasma include:

  1. Topical medications: Topical lightening agents, such as hydroquinone or tranexamic acid can be applied to the skin to lighten the brown patches of melasma. These medications may be used alone or in combination with other treatments.
  2. Oral medication: Oral tranexamic acid can be used in severe cases for certain individuals and can be combined with other modalities including laser treatments.
  3. Laser treatment: Laser treatment, such as picosecond lasers, can be used to remove dark pigmentation and stimulate the production of collagen, which can help improve the appearance of melasma.
  4. Chemical peels: Chemical peels use a chemical solution to remove the outer layers of skin, revealing smoother, clearer skin underneath. They can be helpful in reducing the appearance of melasma.
  5. Microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure that uses a fine spray of crystals to remove the outer layers of skin, helping to improve the appearance of melasma.

It is important to consult with a physician to determine the best treatment option for your specific needs and goals. Protecting the skin from the sun and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is vital for slowing down the progression of the condition.

Conclusion

Melasma is a common skin condition that can cause patches of dark, discolored skin to appear on the face. The most common cause of melasma is sun exposure, and it can also be caused by hormone changes and certain medications. The best way to treat melasma is to protect the skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen and using topical medications, such as hydroquinone. Laser treatments can also be used to reduce the appearance of melasma.

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